An important year for musical creativity and excellence is highlighted by the 12 Albums of the Year shortlisted for the 2010 Barclaycard Mercury Prize, announced on Tuesday 20 July.
"This year’s Mercury list includes musicians from all stages of their careers and from contrasting parts of the British Isles," says Simon Frith, Chair of Judges. "It features music that is urban and rural, light and dark, joyful and profound. The records have wit, an abundance of musical energy and their own distinct voices. There is music here to make you laugh, cry, dance and sing. Enjoy!"
The 2010 Albums of the Year are:
Biffy Clyro Only Revolutions
Corinne Bailey Rae The Sea
Dizzee Rascal Tongue N' Cheek
Foals Total Life Forever
I Am Kloot Sky At Night
Kit Downes Trio Golden
Laura Marling I Speak Because I Can
Mumford & Sons Sigh No More
Paul Weller Wake Up the Nation
The xx xx
Villagers Becoming a Jackal
Wild Beasts Two Dancers
The Barclaycard Mercury Prize celebrates the year in music. The shortlist, chosen from an entry of over 200 albums by UK and Irish artists, was announced by Lauren Laverne. The event was hosted by The Hospital Club in Covent Garden, the club for the creative industries.
The overall winner of the 2010 Prize will be decided and announced at the Barclaycard Mercury Prize Awards Show, which will be broadcast live on BBC Two on Tuesday 7 September 2010. Lauren Laverne will present the programme, with the Awards Show event itself hosted by Jools Holland.
